Barrett’s new MARS 30 mm magazine-fed grenade launcher was developed for the U.S. Army’s requirements for a ‘precision grenade launcher’ and was seen in tests.

Barrett’s MARS magazine-fed 30 mm grenade launcher has started its tests following its unveiling during the AUSA 2024 defence exhibition. Barrett stated that MARS (Formerly named SSRS) is a contender in the U.S. Army’s Precision Grenadier System project as a lighter system with a digital fire control system.

Precision Grenadier System’s requirements specify a new grenade launcher with a digital fire control system and low time to target compared to existing launchers like Mk32 revolving grenade launcher chambered in 40 mm LV/MV grenades.

MARS uses 30x42 mm grenades, which carry a smaller payload but have significantly higher muzzle velocity. Barrett plans different versions of this new cartridge, including HE, CQB (Likely reduced explosives or shaped charge), and C-UAS with airburst capability.

XM25 Program Again?

This is not the first time the U.S. wants a lighter and smarter grenade launcher with better ballistics than the widespread 40 mm grenades. In a somewhat distant past, there was another attempt known as XM25 CDTE, which is a bullpup grenade launcher with a digital fire control system and airburst 25 mm grenades. While the program was terminated, XM25 can be said to have formed both a basis for the next attempts to bring alternative grenade launchers and set an example of things not to do.

Other Smart Grenade Launcher Projects

Alongside the U.S., Germany is another country working on a similar weapon. Rheinmetall unveiled its SSW40 grenade launcher that can use the existing 40 mm grenades and airburst rounds (Also programmed by the onboard optics/fire control system).

Conversely, China is offering the Norinco LG5/QLU-11, chambered in either 40 mm HV (LG5 export model) or 35x32 mm (QLU-11 domestic use). Similarly, the launcher can fire airburst rounds when the digital sights are installed. However, China’s smart grenade launcher is significantly heavier than its Western counterparts as it is more inclined towards fire support than fully mobile use.

Author: Kaan Azman

Editor: Özgür Ekşi